The government has provisionally approved Gatwick Airport’s plans for a £2.2bn expansion that could increase the number of flights by more than 100,000 a year. Planners had originally suggested that the project, which would modify an emergency runway, should be rejected. However, final approval for the expansion has been delayed until October, and the transport secretary, Heidi Alexander, has informed Gatwick of her intention to approve the plans.

Planning inspectors recommended that the project could only proceed if there were sufficient controls on noise and public transport access. Alexander’s decision gives Gatwick until April 24th to accept any additional conditions, with the final decision to be made by the government by October 27th. The government stated that the expansion will benefit businesses and holidaymakers and will be in line with legal and environmental requirements. The Labour government has emphasized its support for the growth of the aviation industry, with Alexander expressing her enthusiasm for the sector. However, local campaigners have said they will challenge the decision in court, arguing that the expansion would damage the local environment and worsen the climate crisis.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/feb/27/minister-sets-path-to-allow-gatwick-to-open-second-runway